Glenn, thanks so much--that is EXACTLY the kind of information I was looking for! The sensory nerves being on the outside seems to make sense with regard to my issues.

As to various types of paresthesias--I think I've had them all over the past 12 years--numb spots, cold spots, vibrating, electric buzzes, invisible insects crawling or biting, shooting pains that make you jump out of your skin, etc. Mainly on my face and legs. (Plus other oddities, such as when I press just right on the top of my left big toe, I get a strong electric shock in my left elbow and hand--VERY weird).

The last cervical MRI (in 2006) did mention a "flattening" of the anterior (?) cord surface but said the "signal within the cord" was normal. The orthopedist (spine/scoliosis specialist) who ordered the MRIs said the findings would not account for my symptoms. I am not sure if he looked at the report or just read the MRIs on his own.

The lumbar MRI was also in 2006. Thanks for the info on the sacral area, too.

I am not concerned about the sensory issues as long as they are not (necessarily) a sign that my spinal cord is being damaged to the extent of causing the walking-stamina problem, which is what worries me most. However, that might be just some musculoskeletal issue, which we really haven't gotten to the bottom of yet.

Thanks again VERY much. You seem to know quite a bit about the spine and nerves... I am new here so don't know how you come to know so much, but I definitely appreciate your sharing your knowledge!

Nancy